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Oil has long been misunderstood as the enemy of good health. But we must remember that when it comes to oil moderation is key. Oil is not all bad. In fact we require an essential quantity of fat in order to efficiently absorb the nutrients from our food. This is specially important when it comes to absorbing essential vitamins that are only soluble in fat and not water. These vitamins include Vitamin A, D, E and K. Culinary too, oil is considered as the flavor vehicle that absorbs and enhances all flavors and aromas in a dish. So naturally, choosing the right kind of oil often poses a dilemma. A trip to the supermarket, however, often leaves us confused about the choice of oil to use. Several flashy oil brands promise health and well-being for our families. However, lack of real information often leaves the choice to a particular brand’s advertising budgets rather than facts.

It is important to know that what makes oil healthy or unhealthy, is not just the seed it is extracted from, but also the method of extraction. Did you know most refined oils are extracted using Hexane, a hydrocarbon also found in gasoline and industrial glue that is a chronic intoxicant? Moreover, this is not the only chemical used in commercially produced cooking oils.

The other chemicals used in commercially produced oils are:

Sodium hydroxide or Sodium carbonate; otherwise used in detergents and drain cleaners

Phosphoric acid, Citric acid or Malic acid, diluted with water

BHA (Butylated hydroxyanisole), a proven carcinogen, also used in cosmetics, rubber, and petroleum products

Additionally, commercial oils are manufactured at high temperatures (between 440 – 485 degrees Fahrenheit or 225 -250 degrees Celsius) damaging their nutrition and creating harmful fatty acids and chemical modification that are not suitable for consumption.

So are all oils we eat nutrition-less saturated fats processed with harmful chemicals?

No. Cold-pressed oils are 100 percent natural and edible. They are produced using traditional extraction methods for producing chemical-free oil, while preserving their natural nutritional value and taste. No matter what oil you use, choose the variety that is cold-pressed to gain the maximum benefits.

What are Cold-Pressed Oils?

Cold-pressed oils are produced by crushing/pressing oil seeds and fruits with heavy granite millstones or modern stainless steel presses. The process is done with low-level heat, to preserve the minerals, vitamins and essential fats in the oil. This process gives lower yield than modern methods but the oil produced is healthy and natural.

Are Cold-Pressed Oils Superior to Heat-Pressed Oils?

Definitely. Cold-pressed oils contain no chemicals. They are organic, full of flavor and highly nutritious. According to reports, cold-pressed oils promote strong immunity, protect against cancer and are good for cardio-vascular health.